Severe weather watch for Rotorua

A severe weather watch has been issued by MetService for Rotorua, with the possibility of heavy rain reaching warning amounts tomorrow.

From the ranges of Eastern Bay of Plenty, across to Tongariro National Park and Mount Taranaki heavy rain may approach warning criteria, for example 70mm in 12 hours.

MetService have also said there is severe gale north to northeasterlies over parts of the North Island today.

A front currently delivering heavy rain to the west of the South Island should move onto the North Island overnight tonight and away to the east tomorrow.

Meanwhile, another front over the Tasman Sea moves onto the South Island Friday morning, and onto the North Island Friday evening, bringing another burst of heavy rain, and severe northwest gales in exposed places.

People are advised to stay up to date with forecasts in case this watch is upgraded to a warning.